U.S. patent application number 11/745708 was filed with the patent office on 2008-11-13 for elliptical exercise machine with adjustable foot motion.
This patent application is currently assigned to ICON Health & Fitness, Inc.. Invention is credited to Jaremy T. Butler, N. Jeffrey Chatterton, William T. Dalebout, Gaylen W. Ercanbrack.
Application Number | 20080280731 11/745708 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39970053 |
Filed Date | 2008-11-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080280731 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Dalebout; William T. ; et
al. |
November 13, 2008 |
ELLIPTICAL EXERCISE MACHINE WITH ADJUSTABLE FOOT MOTION
Abstract
An elliptical exercise machine with adjustable foot motion is
provided. The elliptical exercise machine, which is adjustable to
yield different elliptical paths selectable by a user, comprises a
frame, a drive assembly situated on the frame, first and second
link arms, the first end of each link arm being rotatably connected
to the drive assembly, first and second reciprocating foot
supports, the first end of each foot support being pivotally
interconnected to the frame, and first and second brackets, wherein
the first bracket adjustably connects the first link arm to the
first foot support, and wherein the second bracket adjustably
connects the second link arm to the second foot support.
Inventors: |
Dalebout; William T.; (North
Logan, UT) ; Ercanbrack; Gaylen W.; (Logan, UT)
; Butler; Jaremy T.; (Paradise, UT) ; Chatterton;
N. Jeffrey; (Logan, UT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WORKMAN NYDEGGER
60 EAST SOUTH TEMPLE, 1000 EAGLE GATE TOWER
SALT LAKE CITY
UT
84111
US
|
Assignee: |
ICON Health & Fitness,
Inc.
Logan
UT
|
Family ID: |
39970053 |
Appl. No.: |
11/745708 |
Filed: |
May 8, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/52 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 22/0664 20130101;
A63B 2022/0676 20130101; A63B 22/001 20130101; A63B 22/0015
20130101; A63B 2071/025 20130101; A63B 21/02 20130101; Y10S 482/908
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/52 |
International
Class: |
A63B 22/04 20060101
A63B022/04 |
Claims
1. An elliptical exercise machine with adjustable foot motion
comprising: a frame; a drive assembly situated on the frame; first
and second link arms, each link arm having a first end and a second
end, the first end of each link arm being rotatably connected to
the drive assembly; first and second reciprocating foot supports,
each foot support having a first end and a second end, the first
end of each foot support being pivotally interconnected to the
frame such that each foot support moves through an elliptical path;
and first and second brackets, wherein the first bracket adjustably
connects the first link arm to the first foot support such that
movement of the first bracket relative to the first link arm and
the first foot support adjusts the position of the first foot
support relative to the first link arm, thereby altering the
elliptical path of the first foot support, and wherein the second
bracket adjustably connects the second link arm to the second foot
support such that movement of the second bracket relative to the
second link arm and the second foot support adjusts the position of
the second foot support relative to the second link arm, thereby
altering the elliptical path of the second foot support.
2. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the first
bracket has a first member and a second member pivotally connected
at a first bracket joint rod, wherein the first member of the first
bracket is pivotally connected to the first foot support and the
second member of the first bracket is pivotally connected to the
first link arm, and wherein the second bracket has a first member
and a second member pivotally connected at a second bracket joint
rod, wherein the first member of the second bracket is pivotally
connected to the second foot support and the second member of the
second bracket is pivotally connected to the second link arm.
3. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 1, wherein each bracket
has a forward position and a rearward position, wherein each
position yields a different elliptical path for each foot support
and thereby a different foot motion for a user.
4. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 3, wherein the user can
move each bracket between the forward position and the rearward
position.
5. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 4 further comprising:
first and second knobs, each knob being connected to a respective
bracket and situated such that the user can grasp the knob and move
the bracket between the forward position and the rearward position
to alter the elliptical path of each of the foot supports.
6. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 1 further comprising:
first and second swing arms, each swing arm having an upper end and
a lower end, the upper end of each swing arm being rotatably
connected to the frame and the lower end of each swing arm being
pivotally connected to the respective first end of each foot
support.
7. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the frame
has a base support structure and an upright support structure.
8. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 7, wherein the base
support structure has two sides and has a guide rail on each side,
and the second end of each link arm has a roller rotatably attached
to it such that the second end of each link arm can engage the
respective guide rail of the base support structure.
9. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the drive
assembly has first and second crank arms and the first end of the
first link arm is pivotally connected to the first crank arm and
the first end of the second link arm is pivotally connected to the
second crank arm.
10. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the first
and second brackets are configured to yield different elliptical
paths selectable by a user.
11. An elliptical exercise machine with adjustable foot motion
comprising: a frame; first and second link arms, each link arm
having a first end and a second end, the first end of each link arm
being rotatably connected to the frame and the second end of each
link arm being rotatably coupled to the frame; first and second
reciprocating foot supports, each foot support having a first end
and a second end, the first end of each foot support being linked
to the frame; and first and second brackets, wherein the first
bracket has a first section and a second section, the first section
of the first bracket being pivotally connected to the first foot
support and the second section of the first bracket being pivotally
connected to the first link arm such that the first bracket movably
connects the first link arm to the first foot support and movement
of the first bracket relative to the first foot support alters an
elliptical path of the first foot support, and wherein the second
bracket has a first section and a second section, the first section
of the second bracket being pivotally connected to the second foot
support and the second section of the second bracket being
pivotally connected to the second link arm such that the second
bracket movably connects the second link arm to the second foot
support and movement of the second bracket relative to the second
foot support alters an elliptical path of the second foot
support.
12. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 11, wherein each
bracket has a forward position and a rearward position, wherein
each position yields a different elliptical path for each foot
support and thereby a different foot motion for a user.
13. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 12, wherein the user
can move each bracket between the forward position and the rearward
position.
14. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 13 further comprising:
first and second knobs, each knob being connected to a respective
bracket and situated such that the user can grasp the knob and move
the bracket between the forward position and the rearward
position.
15. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 11 further comprising:
first and second swing arms, each swing arm having an upper end and
a lower end, the upper end of each swing arm being rotatably
connected to the frame and the lower end of each swing arm being
pivotally connected to the respective first end of each foot
support.
16. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 11, wherein the frame
has a base support structure and an upright support structure.
17. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 16, wherein the base
support structure has two sides and has a guide rail on each side,
and the second end of each link arm has a roller rotatably attached
to it such that the second end of each link arm can engage the
respective guide rail of the base support structure.
18. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 11 further comprising
a drive assembly situated on the frame, wherein the drive assembly
has first and second crank arms and the first end of the first link
arm is pivotally connected to the first crank arm and the first end
of the second link arm is pivotally connected to the second crank
arm.
19. An elliptical exercise machine with adjustable foot motion
comprising: a frame having a base support structure and an upright
support structure; a drive assembly situated on the frame; first
and second link arms, each link arm having a first end and a second
end, the first end of each link arm being rotatably connected to
the drive assembly, and the second end of each link arm being
movably connected to the base support structure; first and second
reciprocating foot supports, each foot support having a first end
and a second end, each foot support being adapted to move through
an elliptical path; first and second swing arms, each swing arm
having an upper end and a lower end, the upper end of each swing
arm being rotatably connected to the frame and the lower end of
each swing arm being pivotally connected to the respective first
end of each foot support; and first and second brackets, wherein
the first bracket has a first section and a second section, the
first section of the first bracket being pivotally connected to the
first foot support and the second section of the first bracket
being pivotally connected to the first link arm such that the first
bracket movably connects the first link arm to the first foot
support, and wherein the second bracket has a first section and a
second section, the first section of the second bracket being
pivotally connected to the second foot support and the second
section of the second bracket being pivotally connected to the
second link arm such that the second bracket movably connects the
second link arm to the second foot support, wherein the first and
second brackets are adapted to selectively alter the elliptical
path of each of the foot supports.
20. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 19, wherein each
bracket has a forward position and a rearward position, wherein
each position fields a different elliptical path for each foot
support and thereby a different foot motion for a user.
21. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 20, wherein the user
can move each bracket between the forward position and the rearward
position.
22. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 21 further comprising:
first and second knobs, each knob being connected to a respective
bracket and situated such that the user can grasp the knob and move
the bracket between the forward position and the ether rearward
position.
23. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 19, wherein the first
bracket is adapted to selectively adjust the position of the first
foot support relative to the first link arm to alter the elliptical
path of the first foot support, and wherein the second bracket is
adapted to selectively adjust the position of the second foot
support relative to the second link arm to alter the elliptical
path of the second foot support.
24. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 19, wherein the base
support structure has two sides and has a guide rail on each side,
and the second end of each link arm has a roller rotatably attached
to it such that the second end of each link arm can engage the
respective guide rail of the base support structure.
25. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 19, wherein the drive
assembly has first and second crank arms and the first end of the
first link arm is pivotally connected to the first crank arm and
the first end of the second link arm is pivotally connected to the
second crank arm.
26. An elliptical exercise machine with adjustable foot motion
comprising: a frame; first and second link arms, each link arm
having a first end and a second end, the first end of each link arm
being rotatably connected to the frame; first and second
reciprocating foot supports, each foot support having a first end
and a second end, the first end of each foot support being linked
to the frame; and first and second brackets, wherein the first
bracket pivotally connects the first link arm with the first foot
support, and wherein the second bracket pivotally connects the
second link arm with the second foot support, wherein each bracket
has a forward position and a rearward position relative to its
respective link arm such that each bracket can be selectively moved
relative to its respective link arm, and wherein each position
yields a different elliptical path for each foot support and
thereby a different foot motion for a user.
27. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 26, wherein the user
can move each bracket between the forward position and the rearward
position.
28. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 27 further comprising:
first and second knobs, each knob being connected to a respective
bracket and situated such that the user can grasp the knob and move
the bracket between the forward position and the rearward
position.
29. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 26 further comprising:
first and second swing arms, each swing arm having an upper end and
a lower end, the upper end of each swing arm being rotatably
connected to the frame and the lower end of each swing arm being
pivotally connected to the respective first end of each foot
support.
30. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 26, wherein the frame
has a base support structure and an upright support structure.
31. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 30, wherein the base
support structure has two sides and has a guide rail on each side,
and the second end of each link arm has a roller rotatably attached
to it such that the second end of each link arm can engage the
respective guide rail of the base support structure.
32. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 26 further comprising
a drive assembly situated on the frame, wherein the drive assembly
has first and second crank arms and the first end of the first link
arm is pivotally connected to the first crank arm and the first end
of the second link arm is pivotally connected to the second crank
arm.
33. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 26, wherein the first
bracket has a first member and a second member pivotally connected
at a first bracket joint rod, wherein the first member of the first
bracket is pivotally connected to the first foot support and the
second member of the first bracket is pivotally connected to the
first link arm, and wherein the second bracket has a first member
and a second member pivotally connected at a second bracket joint
rod, wherein the first member of the second bracket is pivotally
connected to the second foot support and the second member of the
second bracket is pivotally connected to the second link arm.
34. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 27 further comprising:
first and second springs, each spring being connected to a
respective bracket and situated such that the springs will
facilitate movement of each bracket between the forward position
and the rearward position.
35. The elliptical exercise machine of claim 26, wherein: the first
bracket comprises a first movable section and a first clamp
pivotally linked together by a first bracket plate; and the second
bracket comprises a second movable section and a second clamp
pivotally linked together by a second bracket plate.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. The Field of the Invention
[0002] This invention generally relates to exercise equipment and,
more specifically, to elliptical exercise machines.
[0003] 2. The Relevant Technology
[0004] Exercise machines having alternating reciprocating foot
supports configured to traverse or travel about a closed path to
simulate a striding, running, walking, and/or a climbing motion for
the individual using the machine are well known in the art, and are
commonly referred to as elliptical exercise machines or elliptical
cross-trainers. In general, an elliptical or elliptical-type
exercise machine comprises a pair of reciprocating foot supports
designed to receive and support the feet of a user. Each
reciprocating foot support has at least one end supported for
rotational motion about a pivot point, with the other end supported
in a manner configured to cause the reciprocating foot support to
travel or traverse a closed path, such as a reciprocating
elliptical or oblong path or other similar geometric outline.
Therefore, upon operation of the exercise machine, each
reciprocating foot support is caused to travel or traverse the
closed path, thereby simulating a striding motion of the user for
exercise purposes. The reciprocating foot supports are configured
to be out of phase with one another by 180 degrees in order to
simulate a proper and natural alternating stride motion.
[0005] An individual may utilize an elliptical exercise machine by
placing his or her feet onto the reciprocating foot supports. The
individual may then actuate the exercise machine for any desired
length of time to cause the reciprocating foot supports to
repeatedly travel their respective closed paths, which action
effectively results in a series of strides achieved by the
individual to obtain exercise, with a low-impact advantage. An
elliptical exercise machine may further comprise mechanisms or
systems for increasing the resistance of the motion. In addition,
the reciprocating motion of the feet to achieve a series of strides
may be complemented by a reciprocating movement of the arms,
whether assisted by the exercise machine via a suitably configured
mechanism or system, or unassisted.
[0006] Although elliptical exercise machines may comprise
mechanisms or systems for increasing the resistance of motion,
there is no practical way to readily adjust the level of exercise
on a given machine. It is, therefore, an object of the present
invention to provide a mechanism to readily vary the level of
exercise on an elliptical exercise machine.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] An elliptical exercise machine with adjustable foot motion
is provided. The elliptical exercise machine, which is adjustable
to yield different elliptical paths selectable by a user, comprises
a frame, a drive assembly situated on the frame, first and second
link arms, the first end of each link arm being rotatably connected
to the drive assembly, first and second reciprocating foot
supports, the first end of each foot support being pivotally
interconnected to the frame, and first and second brackets, wherein
the first bracket adjustably connects the first link arm to the
first foot support, and wherein the second bracket adjustably
connects the second link arm to the second foot support.
[0008] Each bracket has a forward position and a rearward position,
wherein each position yields a different elliptical path for each
foot support and thereby a different foot motion for the user. In
some embodiments, the user adjusts each bracket and thereby changes
the elliptical path by either grabbing a knob affixed to each
bracket. In other embodiments, the user merely adjusts each bracket
and thereby changes the elliptical by grabbing and moving a foot
pad that is situated on each foot support.
[0009] The frame further comprises a base support structure and an
upright support structure. Further, in certain embodiments, the
base support structure has two sides and has a guide rail on each
side, and the second end of each link arm has a roller rotatably
attached to it such that the second end of each link arm can engage
the respective guide rail of the base support structure.
[0010] In certain embodiments of the elliptical exercise machine of
the present invention, each bracket has a first section and a
second section, the first section of the each bracket being
pivotally connected to each respective foot support and the second
section of the each bracket being pivotally connected to each
respective link arm such that the each bracket movably connects
each respective link arm to each respective foot support.
[0011] In other embodiments of the elliptical exercise machine of
the present invention, where each bracket pivotally connects each
link arm with each foot support, the first bracket comprises a
first movable section and a first clamp pivotally linked together
by a first bracket plate, and the second bracket comprises a second
movable section and a second clamp pivotally linked together by a
second bracket plate.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] In order that the manner in which the above-recited and
other advantages and objects of the invention are obtained, a more
particular description of the invention briefly described above
will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof that
are illustrated in the appended drawings. These drawings depict
only typical embodiments of the invention. They are not, therefore,
to be considered to be limiting of its scope. The invention will be
described and explained with additional specificity and detail
through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:
[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a front mechanism
elliptical exercise machine according to the present invention;
[0014] FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the elliptical exercise
machine of FIG. 1;
[0015] FIG. 3 illustrates an enlarged, cut-away rear view of the
elliptical exercise machine of FIG. 1;
[0016] FIG. 4A illustrates a side view of the elliptical exercise
machine of FIG. 1;
[0017] FIG. 4B illustrates another side view of the elliptical
exercise machine of FIG. 1;
[0018] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative
embodiment of a front mechanism elliptical exercise machine
according to the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 6A illustrates a side view of the elliptical exercise
machine of FIG. 5;
[0020] FIG. 6B illustrates another side view of the elliptical
exercise machine of FIG. 5;
[0021] FIG. 7 illustrates an enlarged, cut-away perspective view of
the elliptical exercise machine of FIG. 5;
[0022] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative
embodiment of a front mechanism elliptical exercise machine
according to the present invention.
[0023] FIG. 9A illustrates a side view of the elliptical exercise
machine of FIG. 8;
[0024] FIG. 9B illustrates another side view of the elliptical
exercise machine of FIG. 8; and
[0025] FIG. 10 shows an enlarged, cut-away perspective view of the
elliptical exercise machine of FIG. 8.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0026] The following detailed description of exemplary embodiments
of the invention makes reference to the accompanying drawings,
which show, by way of illustration, exemplary embodiments in which
the invention may be practiced. While these exemplary embodiments
are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the
art practice the invention, it should be understood that other
embodiments may be realized and that various changes to the
invention may be made without departing from the spirit and scope
of the present invention. Thus, the following more detailed
description of the embodiments of the present invention, as
represented in the figures, is not intended to limit the scope of
the invention, as claimed, it is presented for purposes of
illustration only and to describe the features and characteristics
of the present invention, to set forth the best mode of operation
of the invention, and to sufficiently enable one skilled in the art
to practice the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present
invention is to be defined solely by the appended claims. The
following detailed description and exemplary embodiments of the
invention will be best understood by reference to the accompanying
drawings, wherein the elements and features of the invention are
designated by numerals throughout.
[0027] The present invention describes and features an exercise
machine, and particularly an elliptical or elliptical-type exercise
machine that provides a mechanism to vary the level of exercise.
Further, the disclosed mechanism is very simple to use. With
reference to the accompanying drawings, advantages of the present
invention will be apparent in light of the detailed description set
forth below. These advantages are not meant to be limiting in any
way. Indeed, other than those specifically recited herein, one
skilled in the art will appreciate that other advantages may be
realized, upon practicing the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a front mount or front
mechanical-type elliptical exercise machine 100 according to one
exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The elliptical
exercise machine 100 comprises a frame 10, a drive assembly 30,
first and second swing arms 40 and 42, first and second foot
supports 50 and 52, first and second link arms 60 and 62, and first
and second double brackets 70 and 72. The frame 10 comprises an
upright support structure 12 and a base support structure 20, which
has first and second support feet 26 and 28. As shown in FIG. 1,
the drive assembly 30 is enclosed in a housing 31 that is situated
on part of each of the base support structure 20 and the upright
support structure 12.
[0029] With respect to the left hand side of the elliptical
exercise machine 100, which is identical to the right hand side
except that it is offset by 180 degrees, the upper end of the first
swing arm 40 is pivotally connected to the upright support
structure 12 at a pivot point 36. The lower end of the first swing
arm 40 is pivotally connected to the forward end of the first foot
support 50 at a pivot point 44. The first foot support 50 is
thereby pivotally connected to the first link arm 60 by means of a
bracket, the first double bracket 70. The first link arm 60 is
thereby rotatably connected to a first crank arm 32 of the drive
assembly 30 at a pivot point 33. Note that the forward end of the
elliptical exercise machine 100 or part thereof is that toward the
end of the machine 100 on which the drive assembly 30 is situated,
and the rearward end or part thereof is that toward the opposite
end of the machine
[0030] As shown in FIG. 1, a first foot pad 54 is situated on the
rearward end of the first foot support 50. Also, the double bracket
70 connects the first foot support 50 and the first link arm 60 at
a point between their respective ends and at a point more proximate
the rearward end of each. Further, as shown in FIG. 1, there is a
roller 64 attached to the lower end 61 of the first link arm 60 so
that the link arm 60 can ride along a guide rail 24 on the left
side of the base support structure 20. This feature also is shown
in FIG. 2.
[0031] FIG. 2 shows an enlarged, cut-away perspective view of the
bottom portion of the elliptical exercise machine of FIG. 1,
illustrating the mechanisms of the double brackets 70 and 72, which
are identical except for being out of phase by 180 degrees. The
first double bracket 70 comprises an upper half 80 and a lower half
90 that are pivotally connected at a first bracket joint rod 85.
The upper half 80 of the double bracket 70 is pivotally connected
at its upper end to the first foot support 50 at pivot point 81 and
the lower half 90 is pivotally connected at its lower end to the
first link arm 60 at pivot point 91. When in use, the first foot
support 50 rests or rides on top of the outer portion of the first
bracket joint rod 85, while the bottom inner portion of the first
bracket joint rod rests or rides on top of the first link arm 60.
The inner and outer portions of the bracket joint rods 85 and 86
have concave surfaces to readily mate with the foot supports and
link arms (as best shown in FIG. 1).
[0032] Extending outward and perpendicular from the first bracket
and joint rod 85 is a first knob 87 that enables a user to position
the first double bracket 70 either in a forward location or in a
rearward location. As shown in FIG. 2, the first double bracket 70
and the second double bracket 72 are positioned in their forward
locations. The present invention achieves adjustable foot motion by
means of the double brackets 70 and 72 and their respective forward
and rearward locations. In the forward location (or position),
double bracket 70 causes foot support 50 and thereby foot pad 54 to
travel in a more vertical path than when double bracket 70 is in
its rearward location, also resulting in a path that is shorter in
length. This path that the user's foot follows when the double
bracket 70 is in its forward location also results in a more
strenuous exercise than when the double bracket 70 is in its
rearward location. In this way, the present invention provides a
mechanism to readily vary the level of exercise of an elliptical
machine. Further, although only a forward and rearward location for
each of the double brackets 70 and 72 are disclosed, many positions
are contemplated, e.g., locations that are adjustable between a
forward and a rearward location.
[0033] To change the position of the double bracket 70, the
exercise machine 100 should not be in use. The user grabs hold on
the knob 87 and imparts pressure in either the forward or rearward
direction, depending on the desired new location. Note that there
may be a need to simultaneously lift up slightly on the foot
support 50 to facilitate moving of knob 87 and double bracket 70.
In other embodiments, the double bracket 70 can be spring loaded
such that the user can merely lift up on the rearward end 51 of the
foot support 50 and the spring loaded bracket will flip to the
opposite or different location.
[0034] As discussed and as shown in the Figures, the double
brackets 70 and 72 are designed to adjust and thereby vary the foot
motion of the user of an elliptical machine. As shown, the angle
between each half 80 and 90 of double bracket 70 changes not only
upon adjustment from the forward location to the rearward location,
but also when the elliptical exercise machine 100 is in operation.
Further, in the embodiments shown in the Figures, the weight or
pressure from the user keeps the double brackets 70 and 72 in their
respective forward or rearward locations during operation. Specific
mechanisms for maintaining the double brackets 70 and 72 in their
desired locations, however, are contemplated.
[0035] FIG. 3 shows a rear view of the elliptical exercise machine
of FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 3, each double bracket 70 and 72 is
positioned in its respective forward locations. Also as shown, the
halves (or sections) of double bracket 70 are pivotally connected
at pivot joint rod 85, which is centered on common axis 71, which
also is shared by knob 87. Similarly, the halves of double bracket
72 are pivotally connected at second pivot joint rod 86, which is
centered on common axis 73, which also is shared by knob 88.
Further, as shown in FIG. 3, although the respective halves 80, 90
and 82, 92 of the double brackets 70, 72 surround both sides of the
respective foot supports 50, 52 and link arms 60, 62, embodiments
of the double brackets 70, 72 that are positioned only on one side
of the respective foot supports 50, 52 and link arms 60, 62 are
contemplated.
[0036] FIG. 4A shows a side view of the elliptical exercise machine
100 of FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 4A, the double brackets 70 and 72
are positioned in their respective forward locations. FIG. 4B shows
a side view of the elliptical exercise machine 100 of FIG. 1 with
the double brackets 70 and 72 positioned in their respective
rearward locations. Compared to FIG. 4A, where the double brackets
70 and 72 are in their respective forward locations, the foot pads
54 and 56 of FIG. 4B are in relatively lower and more rearward
positions that those of FIG. 4A. In this way, when the double
brackets 70 and 72 are positioned in their rearward locations, the
elliptical path is less vertical and shorter in length than when
the double brackets are in their forward locations. Changing the
elliptical path in this manner changes the level of exercise. That
is, a more vertical elliptical path resulting from the double
brackets 70 and 72 positioned in their forward locations causes the
user to undergo a more strenuous level of exercise than when the
double brackets are in their rearward locations. Arrows are shown
in FIGS. 4A and 4B to depict the direction the user moves the
respective knobs 85 and 85 to position the double brackets 70 and
72 in their respective forward (FIG. 4A) and rearward (FIG. 4B)
locations. Thus, by changing the locations of the double brackets
70 and 72, the user can readily vary the foot motion and thereby
adjust the level of exercise on the elliptical exercise machine
100.
[0037] FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a front mount or front
mechanical-type elliptical exercise machine 200 according to an
alternate exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As shown
in FIG. 5, the elliptical exercise machine 200 is the same as the
exercise machine 100 except that the foot supports 150 and 152 of
machine 200 are pivotally connected to its link arms 160 and 162 by
means of respective single brackets 170 and 172, as opposed to the
double brackets 70 and 72 of exercise machine 100. To change the
locations of the single brackets 170 and 172, the user can merely
lift up on a foot pad 154 and 156, and the brackets 170 and 172
will flip to the opposite or different location. Further, as with
exercise machine 100, the left hand side of exercise machine 200 is
identical to the right hand side except that it is offset by 180
degrees.
[0038] FIG. 6A shows a side view of the elliptical exercise machine
200 of FIG. 5. As shown in FIG. 6A, the single brackets 170 and 172
are positioned in their respective forward locations. FIG. 6B shows
a side view of the elliptical exercise machine 200 of FIG. 5 with
the single brackets 170 and 172 positioned in their respective
rearward locations. Compared to FIG. 6A, where the single brackets
170 and 172 are in their respective forward locations, the foot
pads 154 and 156 of FIG. 6B are in relatively lower and more
rearward positions that those of FIG. 6A. In this way, when the
single brackets 170 and 172 are positioned in their rearward
locations, the elliptical path is less vertical and shorter in
length than when the double brackets are in their forward
locations. Changing the elliptical path in this manner changes the
level of exercise. That is, a more vertical elliptical path
resulting from the double brackets 170 and 172 positioned in their
forward locations causes the user to undergo a more strenuous level
of exercise than when the double brackets are in their rearward
locations. Arrows are shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B to depict the
direction the user moves the respective foot pads 154 and 156 to
position the single brackets 170 and 172 in their respective
forward (FIG. 6A) and rearward (FIG. 6B) locations. Thus, by
changing the locations of the single brackets 170 and 172, the user
can readily vary the foot motion and thereby adjust the level of
exercise on the elliptical exercise machine 200.
[0039] FIG. 7 shows an enlarged, cut-away perspective view of the
elliptical exercise machine 200 of FIG. 5. As shown in FIG. 7, the
first single bracket 170 pivotally connects the first foot support
150 and the first link arm 160, and comprises a first upper section
210, a first lower section 220, and a first bracket plate 201
joining the two sections (or halves) 210 and 220. The first upper
section 210 comprises a first outer tube 210A and a first inner
tube 210B that are connected to each other and to the first bracket
plate 201 by means of a first upper section axle 211 and a first
upper section bolt 213. The first lower section 220 comprises two
concentric tubes 220A and 220B that are connected to each other by
bushings (not shown and to keep the concentric tubes in place) and
to the first bracket plate 201 by means of a first lower section
axle 221 and a first upper section bolt 223.
[0040] In the exercise machine 200 of FIG. 7, the first outer tube
210A is metal and is welded to the first foot support 150, and the
first inner tube 210B is plastic and slides or rides on top of the
first link arm 160. Also, in the machine 200 of FIG. 7, all of the
tubes 210A, 210B, 220A and 220B have circular cross sections. As
noted, the left hand side of exercise machine 200 is identical to
the right hand side except that it is offset by 180 degrees. Thus,
the second single bracket 172, which pivotally connects the second
foot support 152 and the second link arm 162, is identical in both
structure and operation to the first single bracket 170, except
that it is offset by 180 degrees. Accordingly, FIG. 7 also depicts
the second single bracket 172, which comprises a second upper
section 212, a second lower section 222, a second bracket plate
202, a second outer tube 212A, a second inner tube 212B, a second
upper section axle 231, a second upper section bolt 233, two
concentric tubes 220A and 220B, bushings (not shown), a first lower
section axle 241, and a first upper section bolt 243.
[0041] FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of a front mount or front
mechanical-type elliptical exercise machine 300 according to a
third exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As shown in
FIG. 8, the elliptical exercise machine 300 is similar to the
exercise machine 200 except that the foot supports 250 and 252 of
machine 300 are pivotally connected to its link arms 260 and 262 by
means of respective single brackets 270 and 272, which are distinct
from both double brackets 70 and 72 of exercise machine 100 and
from the single brackets 170 and 172 of exercise machine 200. To
change the locations of the single brackets 270 and 272, the user
can merely lift up on a foot pad 254 and 256, and the brackets 270
and 272 will flip to the opposite or different location. Further,
as with exercise machines 100 and 200, the left hand side of
exercise machine 300 is identical to the right hand side except
that it is offset by 180 degrees.
[0042] FIG. 9A shows a side view of the elliptical exercise machine
300 of FIG. 8. As shown in FIG. 9A, the single brackets 270 and 272
are positioned in their respective forward locations. FIG. 9B shows
a side view of the elliptical exercise machine 300 of FIG. 8 with
the single brackets 270 and 272 positioned in their respective
rearward locations. Compared to FIG. 9A, where the single brackets
270 and 272 are in their respective forward locations, the foot
pads 254 and 256 of FIG. 9B are in relatively lower and more
rearward positions that those of FIG. 9A. In this way, when the
single brackets 270 and 272 are positioned in their rearward
locations, the elliptical path is less vertical and shorter in
length than when the double brackets are in their forward
locations. Changing the elliptical path in this manner changes the
level of exercise. That is, a more vertical elliptical path
resulting from the single brackets 270 and 272 positioned in their
forward locations causes the user to undergo a more strenuous level
of exercise than when the brackets are in their rearward locations.
Arrows are shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B to depict the direction the
user moves the respective foot pads 254 and 256 to position the
single brackets 270 and 272 in their respective forward (FIG. 9A)
and rearward (FIG. 9B) locations. Thus, by changing the locations
of the single brackets 270 and 272, the user can readily vary the
foot motion and thereby adjust the level of exercise on the
elliptical exercise machine 300.
[0043] FIG. 10 shows an enlarged, cut-away perspective view of the
elliptical exercise machine 300 of FIG. 8. As shown in FIG. 10, the
second single bracket 272 pivotally connects the second foot
support 252 and the second link arm 262, and comprises a second
movable section 310 (a first half) and a second clamp 320 (a second
section/half). A second bracket plate 301 joins the second movable
section 310 and the second clamp 320. The second movable section
310 comprises a second outer tube 310A and a second inner tube 310B
that are connected to each other and to the second bracket plate
301 by means of a second movable section axle 311 and a second
movable section bolt 313. The second clamp 320 is affixed to the
second link arm 262 as shown and is connected to the second bracket
plate 301 by means of a second clamp axle 321 and a second clamp
bolt 323.
[0044] In the exercise machine 300 of FIG. 10, the second outer
tube 320A is metal and is welded to the second foot support 252,
and the second inner tube 320B is plastic and rests on plastic pads
333 on the top surface of the second link arm 262 when the second
foot pad 256 is positioned at the desired location. Also, in the
machine 300 of FIG. 10, tubes 310A and 310B have circular cross
sections. Only second single bracket 272 was described with respect
to FIG. 10 merely for illustrative purposes. As noted, the left
hand side of exercise machine 300 is identical to the right hand
side except that it is offset by 180 degrees. Thus, the first
single bracket 270, which pivotally connects the first foot support
250 and the second link arm 260, is identical in both structure and
operation to the second single bracket 272, except that it is
offset by 180 degrees.
[0045] As set forth above, the present invention provides an
elliptical exercise machine that allows the user to easily and
readily adjust the level of exercise. By changing the locations of
the respective brackets of the present invention, e.g., 70, 72 or
170, 172 or 270, 272, the user can readily vary the foot motion and
thereby adjust the level of exercise on the respective elliptical
exercise machine. That is, a more vertical elliptical path causes
the user to undergo a more strenuous level of exercise than when
the elliptical path is less vertical, and a more vertical path is
achieved when a respective bracket is in its forward position,
while a less vertical path is achieved when a respective bracket is
in its rearward position.
[0046] Although multiple embodiments of the invention are described
herein in detail, it will be understood by those skilled in the art
that variations may be made thereto without departing from the
spirit of the invention or the scope of the claims.
* * * * *